Vowen

Hi everyone. I’m an international student about to begin my undergraduate studies in Physics (in Otago). My long-term career goal is to pursue theoretical physics or astrophysics research, which means doing an MSc and then a PhD, ideally in Germany or the Netherlands, and hopefully staying in academia or a research institute afterwards. I’d like to ask for advice and real experiences about the following: 1. MSc Admission •How much does the ranking of my undergrad university matter for MSc admission (especially in Germany/Netherlands)? •What matters more, GPA, research experience, recommendation letters, specific coursework, or something else? 2. Teaching Language •Many MSc programs are in English, while some are in German/Dutch. For long-term academic and research careers, is there an advantage to doing a German/Dutch-taught MSc, or is an English-taught MSc equally respected? •If I choose English-taught MSc, how important is it to learn the local language anyway during MSc/PhD? 3. Funding & Living •Are MSc students usually funded, or mostly self-paying? How do costs compare between Germany and the Netherlands? •I know PhD in Germany is usually salaried as a job (TV-L E13) — how do people usually manage the MSc financially before that stage? 4. Research Opportunities •In theoretical/astrophysics, which country has stronger MSc/PhD programs overall, Germany or the Netherlands •Are there specific MSc programs, universities, or professors that are particularly strong in these areas and well connected internationally? •How easy is it for MSc students to get involved in research early and build connections toward a PhD? 5. PhD → Academic Career •After finishing a PhD in Germany or the Netherlands, how realistic is it for an international student (non-EU) to get a position in a research institute or a university? •How difficult is it compared to entering industry? •For someone aiming to stay in academia, what strategies make the biggest difference (e.g. publications, networking, learning local language)? 6. Preparation During Undergrad •What should I start focusing on now to maximize my chances of getting into a strong MSc and later PhD program? •GPA target, specific courses, coding/math skills, research internships, early publications, language preparation (German/Dutch)? Any detailed advice or first-hand stories would be incredibly valuable. My main goal is to plan realistically for BSc → MSc → PhD → research career and stay, and I want to understand what really matters in this pathway. Thanks a lot!